Hyundai Launches Production of IONIQ 9 at New Georgia EV Plant

Lead: In a bold move towards electric mobility, Hyundai has initiated production of its first three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, at its newly inaugurated plant located in Georgia. The plant’s grand opening was celebrated on Wednesday, a mere two years after construction commenced. Hyundai’s significant investment, which totals $7.6 billion, aims to boost electric vehicle (EV) production for the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands, while creating thousands of jobs in the local economy.

Hyundai IONIQ 9 Begins Production in Georgia

Hyundai’s investment in Georgia represents one of its most ambitious projects to date, both financially and strategically. Here are the key highlights regarding the new plant and the IONIQ 9:

– **Location:** Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, Georgia
– **Investment Value:** $7.6 billion, accounting for the largest economic development project in Georgia’s history
– **Job Creation:** Approximately 8,500 direct jobs expected by 2030
– **Overall Investment:** Over $12.6 billion when considering partnerships with battery manufacturers like SK On and LG Energy Solutions

According to the Center for Automotive Research, this investment will foster close to 40,000 jobs in the region, further bolstering the local economy. During the grand opening, Euisun Chung, executive chair of Hyundai Motor Group, asserted, “Together with the talented workforce at HMGMA, we are building the future of mobility with America, in America.”

Production Capacity and Initial Models

The new facility aims to significantly increase production capabilities within the EV sector:

– **Annual Production Capacity:** Eventually up to 500,000 vehicles per year
– **Initial Production Capacity:** 300,000 vehicles annually
– **First Models Off the Line:** The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, which began production in October, and the recently launched IONIQ 9

Despite the recent opening ceremony, production of the IONIQ 9 is already underway, with the anticipated launch set for this spring.

Features of the Hyundai IONIQ 9

Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 is set to redefine the electric SUV market with its compelling features:

– **Battery Capacity:** A robust 110.3 kWh battery
– **EPA-Estimated Range:** Up to 335 miles on a full charge
– **Cargo Space:** Up to 1,322 liters, surpassing the Kia EV9’s capacity
– **Dimensions:** 5,060 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,790 mm in height, making it slightly larger than the Kia EV9

The IONIQ 9 will also come equipped with a State-of-the-Art North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, allowing compatibility with Tesla Supercharger stations, providing greater accessibility to charging options.

Pricing Expectations

While specific pricing details remain unannounced, preliminary estimates suggest that the IONIQ 9 is likely to start at approximately $60,000, placing it slightly above the Kia EV9 price point.

The Future of Hyundai’s Electric Vehicle Strategy

Looking ahead, Hyundai hasn’t just put its focus on the IONIQ 9. The company is also exploring further EV advancements:

– **Community Impact:** Anticipated to enhance economic development in Georgia significantly
– **Expanded Production Plans:** The first Kia vehicle slated for production at the facility is expected to be launched in 2026, potentially the EV4 sedan, marking Kia’s entrance into the electric sedan market

This factory opening comes alongside Hyundai’s recent announcement of a $21 billion investment aimed to elevate its output to 1.2 million units for its various brands. Plans are also underway for a new steel plant in Louisiana, with $6 billion allocated for its construction.

Policy Challenges Ahead

As the EV industry grows, challenges remain. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff has vocalized concerns about federal policies that could stymie the growth of electric vehicles in the U.S. He stated, “The Trump Administration’s war on electric vehicles poses a threat to EV sales, to the EV market, and to the automobile industry in Georgia and across the country.”

He emphasized that removing federal tax credits would further disadvantage the U.S. in comparison to global rivals, specifically China.

Conclusion: The launch of the Hyundai IONIQ 9 at the new Georgia EV plant signals a monumental step in Hyundai’s commitment to electric mobility and the future of sustainable transportation. With significant investments and ambitious production goals, the company looks poised to make a lasting impact in the rapidly expanding EV market while boosting local economies and workforce growth.

Keywords: Hyundai IONIQ 9, electric SUV, Georgia EV plant, Hyundai investment, EV production, electric vehicles, job creation, IONIQ 5, battery technology, NACS port

Hashtags: #Hyundai #IONIQ9 #ElectricVehicle #EV #Georgia #SustainableTransport #FutureOfMobility #HyundaiMetaplant



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